Evaluate carrier connectivity, transit-time maps, dock and staging capacity, racking and climate-control options, WMS/API integration, SLA history, inventory accuracy, security and compliance certifications, labor availability and shift flexibility, and transparent cost structures (storage, handling, inbound/outbound fees). Prioritize the criteria that most affect customer delivery expectations and landed cost.

Closer proximity reduces road miles and dwell time, enabling lower fuel and linehaul costs and faster replenishment cycles. It improves reliability for time-sensitive SKUs and reduces variability in delivery windows—important for omnichannel promises and B2B lead times.

Require real-time inventory visibility, API-based order and shipping integrations, multi-client SKU management, batch and lot tracking, support for multiple picking strategies (batch, zone, wave), returns processing, and reporting for KPIs like OTIF, pick accuracy, and dwell days.

Request a detailed quote that breaks out storage (by tier and pallet type), pick-and-pack per-unit fees, inbound receiving and QC charges, handling for special services, minimum monthly charges, billing cadence, dimensional-weight rules, and surcharges. Model costs against your SKU velocity and seasonal peaks.

Look for flexible capacity (short-term rack and floor options), access to temporary labor pools, cross-dock and surge fulfillment lanes, modifiable SLA tiers, and contractual clauses for volume ramping. Ensure the 3PL has proven processes for seasonal forecasting and contingency labor plans.